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Y! MyWebDemocratic National convention
'It's about you,' Obama says
He tells audience of 84,000
What did you think of Barack Obama's speech?
> Photos | Local reaction
> Blog | Video from the convention
Friday, August 29, 2008
DENVER — Barack Obama cast his presidential nomination as proof that no dreams are too high, savoring a historic moment for himself and the nation Thursday, Aug. 28, before setting out on a difficult struggle to break another barrier for a black American.
Obama's success in obtaining the Democratic nomination was reached despite the misgivings of some Americans uncomfortable with electing the son of an African immigrant — not "the typical pedigree," as he put it.
He used his acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention in part to allay those concerns, to show Americans he is one of them — not born of wealth or privilege, his gains made of hard work and sacrifice.
"This moment — this election — is our chance to keep, in the 21st Century, the American promise alive," Obama said. He put himself in the shadow of great leaders like John Kennedy and Martin Luther King, Jr., as well as his humble parents.
His speech was the culminating moment of the Democrats' four-day convention, the launching point for a difficult fall campaign. It came on the 45th anniversary of King's "I Have a Dream" address.
An enthusiastic crowd of 84,000 — unprecedented for a political convention — literally shook the stadium at INVESCO Field at Mile High with their stomping feet. More important was the audience of millions of Americans watching on TV a tougher crowd, as Obama spoke before a backdrop of columns reminiscent of the White House portico.
"I get it," he said. "I realize that I am not the likeliest candidate for this office. I don't fit the typical pedigree, and I haven't spent my career in the halls of Washington. But I stand before you tonight because all across America something is stirring. What the nay-sayers don't understand is that this election has never been about me. It's been about you."
For those voters with another concern — that a first-term senator who just turned 47 isn't experienced enough to lead the country — Obama had an answer in a list of policy proposals. He promised tax cuts that would benefit workers, an end to dependence on Middle East oil, more funding for education, health care for every American and an end to the war in Iraq.
"If John McCain wants to have a debate about who has the temperament, and judgment, to serve as the next commander in chief, that's a debate I'm ready to have," Obama said.
In reaction to his speech, Dayton Mayor Rhine McLin said, "The messages of hope and that American can change from the way it has been was demandingly given."
City Commissioner Matt Joseph said, "He talked to people's hearts. He didn't just talk to Democrats and Republicans. He talked to the whole world."
Comments
By Saron
August 30, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this
Senator Obama’s speech will go down in the history books. What an inspirational speech!!! My husband and I cheered and clapped and were so motivated. He made us so proud to be Americans! We will definitely give our full support to help him win the Presidecy. AWESOME SPEECH!!!
By Saron
August 30, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this
Senator Obama’s speech will go down in the history books. What an inspirational speech!!! My husband and I cheered and clapped and were so motivated. He made us so proud to be Americans! We will definitely give our full support to help him win the Presidecy. AWESOME SPEECH!!!
By old mo
August 30, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this
“If John McCain wants to have a debate about who has the temperament, and judgment, to serve as the next commander in chief, that’s a debate I’m ready to have,” Obama said.
Holy cow batman. I thought this was the man who has been refusing to debate McCain all year. Kind of like him denying that he hates the flag (because Bill Ayers did). Was forced to wear a flag pin. There is so much that is plastic about this individual.
By SueP
August 30, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this
Obama lists his programs, his positions, his plans, and delivers specifics until he’s blue in the face, but Dittoheads will keep insisting “Obama only speaks in generalities! No substance!”
That’s because Dittoheads and their ilk have their talking points and gol darnit they aren’t going to let a little thing like THE FACTS change their song.
Of course they don’t hear anything when Obama speaks: They work so very hard not to LISTEN that it must be terribly exhausting for them.
By Lisa
August 29, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this
The speech?? A mile high and an inch deep. No substance at all. The set he spoke on was designed by the same guy who designed Britney Spears concerts (no, I’m not kidding). And the background looked like a TEMPLE. Good grief. Why is Obama called the first “black” candidate? He is Bi-RACIAL. His mother was white, correct? Why isn’t he called the first “bi-racial” candidate?? Hm. Interesting.
By Lisa
August 29, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this
The speech was inspirational, but lacked any substance at all. He stands for courage and change, but WHAT ELSE?? Tell us HOW you are going to fix things!
Also, why is he called the first “black” candidate? Why isn’t he called the first “bi-racial” candidate. His mother was white, right??
By blackwoman
August 29, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this
It was definitely the best speech I never heard! Tried to stay up - just couldn’t do it.
But my reasons for wanting to watch was to see just how ridiculous he sounded.
Funny there are no other posts today about this? Perhaps the more politically educated people who read this paper on line are checking out Senator McCain’s VP pick!
Go McCain! Well done! You have chosen a strong conservative as your running mate. Now, let’s get down to business and get both of you elected in November!